17086, Richfield, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17086, Richfield, Pennsylvania is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.98 percent of the residents in 17086 has some form of health insurance. 29.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.30 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 17086 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 453 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17086. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 413 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 793 health care providers accessible to residents in 17086, Richfield, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17086 and Primary Care Availability in Richfield

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 17086, encompassing the town of Richfield, Pennsylvania, requires a nuanced approach. Our focus will be on assessing the availability and quality of primary care physicians, particularly in relation to hypertension management. This analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial factors in providing comprehensive care to individuals managing hypertension.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of access to care. In Richfield, and the surrounding areas within 17086, the ratio can fluctuate. Rural areas often experience shortages of primary care physicians compared to more urban centers. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying the timely management of hypertension. Accurate data on the precise physician-to-patient ratio within the specific ZIP Code requires accessing up-to-date datasets from healthcare providers and government agencies. However, a general assessment suggests that Richfield may face challenges due to its rural nature.

Identifying standout practices within the area is crucial. These practices often demonstrate best practices in hypertension management. Key indicators include the use of evidence-based guidelines, proactive patient education, regular blood pressure monitoring, and the implementation of lifestyle modification programs. Practices that leverage electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient data and provide personalized care are also highly valued. These standout practices serve as models for other providers, promoting improved outcomes for patients with hypertension. The presence of certified diabetes educators, registered dietitians, and other specialists within a practice further enhances its ability to provide comprehensive care.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly vital role in expanding access to care, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely, facilitating medication management, blood pressure monitoring, and lifestyle counseling. For individuals with hypertension, telemedicine can be particularly beneficial, allowing for regular check-ins and adjustments to treatment plans without the need for frequent in-person visits. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. The availability of secure video conferencing platforms and remote monitoring devices are key components of a successful telemedicine program.

The integration of mental health resources is a critical aspect of hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure levels. Therefore, primary care practices that offer or have strong referral pathways to mental health services are better equipped to provide holistic care. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Practices that screen patients for mental health conditions and proactively address these issues are more likely to achieve positive outcomes in hypertension management. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is essential for providing comprehensive care.

The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, also impacts the quality of care for individuals with hypertension. While primary care physicians are often the first point of contact, patients with complex cases may require referral to specialists. The proximity and accessibility of these specialists are crucial. Practices that have established relationships with specialists and can facilitate timely referrals contribute to improved patient outcomes. The ability to share patient information electronically with specialists further streamlines the referral process.

Furthermore, the availability of community resources, such as exercise programs, healthy cooking classes, and support groups, can significantly impact hypertension management. Primary care practices that partner with community organizations to provide these resources demonstrate a commitment to patient well-being beyond the clinical setting. These partnerships can help patients adopt healthier lifestyles and improve their overall health.

Evaluating the level of patient education within each practice is also important. Practices that actively educate patients about hypertension, its risk factors, and the importance of adherence to treatment plans are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. This includes providing written materials, conducting group education sessions, and utilizing online resources. Patient education empowers individuals to take an active role in managing their health.

The use of technology, such as remote blood pressure monitoring devices and mobile health applications, can also enhance hypertension management. Practices that encourage patients to use these technologies and integrate the data into their care plans demonstrate a commitment to innovation and patient engagement. These technologies allow for more frequent monitoring and personalized feedback, leading to improved outcomes.

Finally, the responsiveness of practices to patient needs is a key indicator of quality. Practices that offer convenient appointment scheduling, readily available communication channels, and a supportive environment are more likely to build strong patient-physician relationships. These relationships are essential for fostering trust and promoting adherence to treatment plans. The ability to address patient concerns promptly and effectively is a hallmark of a high-quality practice.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of hypertension care in ZIP Code 17086 involves a comprehensive evaluation of several factors. While the specific data on physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, and resource availability requires detailed research, this analysis provides a framework for understanding the key elements that contribute to effective hypertension management. The integration of telemedicine, mental health resources, and community support is essential for providing comprehensive care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Richfield and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, specialists, and community resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of care and the distribution of healthcare resources.